The SEA Games Experience

In my short stay here I'd say there's not much to see in Jakarta. Tall buildings, terrible traffic and hot weather are perhaps the best things I will remember. Well, I was sent here to work; I had to watch over our sponsored players during the SEA Games.

My first time to watch a SEA Games tourney live.

But life, really, has its twists. I wasn't here only to supervise the golfers. Fate brought me to be reminded of life's crucial lessons.


Accept trials with open arms
There will come a time when we will be given great responsibilities. This tasks, as I've come to realize, are not meant to punish us. They are actually opportunities to make us better, challenges to bring out the best of our abilities. 


Be grateful
These golfers are provided with everything they need. They have food, lodging, uniforms and all other stuff. Quite frankly, I think a few of them need to be reminded of how fortunate they are that someone is so willing to spend millions for them. I observed that these few are not in their best conditions at all times; they could have done better during the game. There actions yesterday reminded me that I should be thankful to have been blessed with people who provide me with the things I need, and in return do my best constantly. It's a simple way of showing thank you.


Magnanimous in victory, gracious in defeat
I'm a sore loser but the athletes' actions kind of rebuked me.. Yesterday's champions were proud of themselves yet they were modest about it. Meanwhile, those of us who did not make it to the top were humble enough to accept our loss but are more determined to do better the next time. As I told our men's team, "Charge it to experience. We lost today, but moments like these make champions."






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Will the odds be in its favor?

I can very much remember how hooked up I was last year with The Hunger Games trilogy. At first I ignored the books 'cause I thought it might just be another Twilight saga. But my curiosity got into me and I finally grabbed a copy.

Every page was full of excitement. Every chapter made me want to read more. I could not close the book even if my eyes already did. The story in general was violent and cruel. But the drama, the action and the suspense drew me close that I bought the second book on the same day I finished the first.

This novel moved me; it stirred all sorts of emotions in me: hope, grief, triumph, despair, courage, frustration, success, hatred, joy. Katniss' care for her younger sister was one thing I can very much relate to. We, in some ways, share the same sentiments, beliefs and nature. I have to say that among all characters I met, she is the most realistic, the "most human" and the only one I ever had connection with.

Right after I finished the saga I knew that Hollywood producers will make an effort to turn it into a blockbuster movie. So I wasn't really surprised when news came out early this year about the casts. What I am anticipating is really the movie itself, and if the adaptation will be as exciting as the master copy. (Of course I know they are two different forms of arts!) And thanks to social networking sites, I found one of its promotional venues. I signed up at The Capitol weeks ago to receive updates about the film. I honestly like the gimmick of getting your personal Panem ID, which really makes you feel part of the Hunger Games.

I owe it to my beloved District 7 that I was able to right away see the official trailer of one of the most anticipated movies of 2012. I watched it last night. And I watched it again several times before I slept. I just couldn't contain myself of the excitement! It was that same level of anticipation when I saw the sneak peak of the last Harry Potter movie. I thought the actors were rightfully selected for the roles, the costumes were apt and the setting was true to the narratives of the book. But..

It was only a trailer. It was intentionally made to entice an audience so that they would draw closer to watching the whole thing. It was like an amuse-bouche that the decision of serving it lies not to the patron but to the head of the kitchen. Similarly, we were only given the best scenes  in that two-and-a-half-minute preview chosen by no less than the director, and that the only way to determine the success of the production is to wait for 128 days.

I am hoping that The Hunger Games movie will not fall to the category of those who fail to deliver exceptional story line and good performances from its lead casts. Though I've seen several films make appealing trailers but fall short on the entirety of the masterpiece, I am optimistic that The Hunger Games movie will bring the same height of thrill and adventure everybody loved of the tale.

Photo taken from the official Facebook page

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One Day in the Witch's House

We were on our way to Laguna this morning when the four of us started to feel terrible. My boss, two of my colleagues and I had undeniably felt the agonizing sensation of hunger. So we stopped at this small "pad" in Magallanes. It's called Park Avenue Desserts.


It's a tiny pastry shop that can barely sit ten people. Yet the mouthwatering sweets displayed on the counter are enough to stop and entice passing by customers looking for a light snack before taking a long travel time.

Some of the tempting cakes ready to be served.

And so we ordered. The thing is, I don't have sweet tooth so I settled for something savory. I originally ordered Truffled Egg Sandwich but the main ingredient was out of stock. Thanks to an old lady waiting behind me at the queue, I got this Italian Club. Her suggestion really satisfied my  appetite.

PAD's Italian Club served with salted kamote chips

It was served fresh and hot. the bread was rightfully toasted that it was crisp yet soft in the inside. The combination of tomato, crushed basil in olive oil, mozzarella cheese and ham worked really well together. With the right amount of saltiness and tinge of sweetness, I could have finished all four servings.


But I didn't; I traded one slice from my pal for this Fig and Prosciutto. Unlike the Italian Club, I think there was a bit of imbalance in this sandwich. It was my first to try fig and I find it too sweet. Maybe it was the amount of spread but it kind of did overpower the flavor of the meat. I know the cured ham is there when I took a bite but I couldn't taste it.

A portion of Fig and Prosciutto sandwich

Caramel Macchiato

And what's the best way to perk up a work-loaded morning but  to take a cup of hot coffee. I've always preferred lattes but today I opted for caramel macchiato. It wasn't as sweet as Starbucks', which actually worked well for me. There was right amount of creamy, bitter, sweet taste all blended nicely together. No need to add those little meringues at the side.


My friend wasn't crazy about this Rocca. But I didn't try it so I cannot vouch for it. It looks delicious though.

Overall I had a wonderful experience at PAD. I'll definitely go back to try the desserts.

For more info, search PAD's contact details here.


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Dead or Alive

It's a Filipino tradition to commemorate the death of a loved one. Oftentimes people visit the grave of a lost family member, a friend or even a renowned personality during the first day of November (Quite ironic, I think, as the day is actually to celebrate the saints of the Catholic Church). My family is no different to this.

I grew up not knowing most of my grandparents. My lolo Rodrigo passed away years before I was born. It has been a practice that we visit his tomb yearly. So despite the scorching heat of the sun, my mother, siblings and I brought flowers and candles to South Cemetery in Makati last Tuesday.

About fifteen minutes after we settled, my mom led us in prayer of the rosary (which I have stopped believing in since high school). I was expecting that we would leave afterwards but she said, “Maya-maya na anak. Minsan lang natin bisitahin ang lolo mo.”

But how does he know we're here? He’s dead. And I honestly don't think our presence here matters. Neither is the effort of million others who are out of their homes right now. 

Those were my thoughts as I try to deeply understand the observance of Undas in the country. I don't know when and how it started but obviously it's been embedded in me. 

Many say it's the opportune time to pay respect to someone we lost and a chance to reunite with relatives and friends. I'm not sure if I still believe that. What I know is that the best time to show love for someone is when they are still alive, when they can still see, hear and feel us. While a dead person's body remains here on Earth, I say he is no longer part of this world. As the ones left behind, we can only reminisce of the good memories we have of that person.

Likewise, any day could be an option for a family reunion. There's Christmas, New Year's Eve and birthdays. Any where could be a place to celebrate, but a mausoleum? It's quite inappropriate to have merriment in a supposed to be solemn place actually. 

Close ties is perhaps the best explanation for this tradition. Filipinos are family-oriented; we care so much for our kin that it's hard for us to let go of them even if they are already gone. As for me, I'd rather focus on the present, on my loved ones, so I won't have to regret anything someday.

Every day is crucial. We should make the most out of it.

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Sautéed Pork Bits on Bed of Mashed Potato with Mango Puree

I remember months ago I wanted to cook something different for my sister for her lunch at school. She somehow grew tired of the common pambaon dishes like adobo, fried chicken and corned beef. So I scouted our cupboard, refrigerator and freezer for some available ingredients. 

I came up with this. 

I really tried my best to make it appetizing. Maybe you can do better using below ingredients (I'm trying to recall them as I write):

What you need:

• ¾ cup menudo cut pork
• 3 tbsp minced red onion
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp minced red bell pepper
• ¼ cup sliced bacon
• ½ cup mango puree
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup button mushroom
• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 medium-size potatoes
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp fresh milk
• Salt and pepper

Here’s how:

Mashed potato 

1. Wash and peel potatoes. Boil in water until thoroughly soft.
2. Mash the potato well in a large bowl. Make sure to avoid lumps.
3. Add butter and milk, then season with salt. Mix thoroughly. Set aside

 Mango puree sauce 

1. Bring mango puree to a light boil over low fire.
2. Add lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 2 minutes.
3. You may also opt to add sugar to make it sweeter.

 For the protein 

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium fire. Add onion and cook until it turns translucent.
2. Add pork, sauté for a minute then add bacon. Continue stirring until pork turns light brown. Add red bell pepper, season with salt and pepper. Cook for another two minutes.
3. To do the garnish, heat the remaining oil in a pan over low fire. Brown mushroom. Add cabbage and cook for not more than a minute. Remove from fire.

 To plate 

1. Using a molder, place the mashed potato on one side of the plate.
2. Carefully arrange on top the sautéed meat then pour about 2-3 tbsp of the puree (You may add more to fit your liking).
3. On the other side, place the mixed veggies.

Please let me know what you think of this dish. Any feedback is greatly appreciated. 

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One Word

I heard a knock on a glass panel near me but I ignored it. The same sound was repeated and this time I realized someone was standing by my station. I turned around.

“I need a copy of the annual report from 2006 to2010, “ the French man from the next office said.  “I came here last week and took copies of 2006 to 2010 annual report. I need one copy each from those years again”. His voice was calm yet imperative.

I assured him I’ll ask my colleague for copies since she files all documents. “Once I complete them I’ll bring them to your office,” I added.

“Hard copies. I need hard copies of 2006 to 2010 annual reports,” he repeated like I didn’t understand his first sentence. (Paulit-ulit?!)

I replied, “Yeah. I’ll bring them to your office, Sir.”

“Okay. Thanks.” Then he left.

He left forgetting something, which I think is, important. He forgot to ask.

Please - a one syllable word that without a doubt can be said effortlessly.

But why did this person fail to ask politely? Was it his culture? His nationality? Or perhaps his position, a manager needing something from a staff?

I was once taught to always use the magic words in a conversation: thank you, I’m sorry, may I and please. These simple yet colorful words mean so much that one can actually create the mood of a discussion. Imagine someone asking you to do him a favor and use these phrases. 

“I’m sorry to bother you but may I ask for annual reports from 2006 to 2010? Please give me hard copies.” 

What a difference will it make! For one, you will feel valued because the person acknowledges that you have the ability to aid him. You’d, likewise, understand the importance of his need and would want to help enthusiastically.

Sadly this is not the case more often than not. I observed that most working people are always pressed for time; rushing to get things done, ignoring small, valuable things around them. But if you look at it, it’s not hard at all. One only needs to be sensitive of his environment, learn to care for other people’s feelings and recognize their potential contributions.

Saying “please” is as easy as counting 1, 2, 3. It’s a simple word that shows a thousand meaning; one word that may define someone’s character.

Is it really that hard to ask politely? Please tell me.

Photo taken from Google Images.

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Fried Chicken Fillet on Bed of Creamed Spinach

Tired of your usual fried chicken? Try this.

What you need:

• 2 pcs breast fillet
• ¼ cup flour
• Salt and pepper
• 5 tbsp cooking oil
• ¾ cup chicken stock / broth
• ¼ cup cream
• ¼ cup evaporated / fresh milk
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 ½ tbsp butter
• ¼ cup minced white onion

Here’s how:

1. Remove the skin off the chicken. Flatten using a meat mallet. Make sure to cover it with plastic first. Then season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over low fire. Roll over chicken on flour before frying. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes.
3. To do the creamed spinach, sauté onion on butter. Cook until onion turns clear.
4. Pour stock and simmer for about a minute over medium fire. Add cream and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 3 minutes.
5. Add spinach and further reduce the mixture.

Make sure to serve it hot.

It's in the Blood

Here’s how my love for cooking began.

Perhaps one can say that it runs in our family. My grandmother, known to many as Naty, used to own a karinderya in Malate just within the compound of her old house. My auntie Judy was her assistant in preparing and cooking the dishes. Everyday they serve various Filipino cuisines that were really well-liked. Among the popular ones were kare-kare, sinigang, ginisang munggo, pinakbet, adobo and paksiw na bangus. Lunch was definitely the peak time where customers go to her small place and savor the delicious taste of her specialties. Students, office workers, housewives, taxi drivers – they all went to my lola’s humble turu-turo.

When I was in elementary, I used to stay in my lola’s house after school and wait for my parents to fetch me in the evening. Many times when I went there early after class (Primary pupils in Malate Catholic School go home at 12nn), I was surprised to see plenty of people standing outside the compound. I remember vividly that those were customers waiting to be seated. They’d rather stay than go to the other nearby karinderya. They all loved my lola’s cooking!

Her son, my father, most likely inherited the talent. He told me a few times that his family owned a small space in a wet market where they used to sell vegetables. I assume this is through this experience that he learned the knack of choosing fresh ingredients. We had a few talks years ago in the kitchen, while I assisted him, and he taught me some of the do’s and don’ts. But perhaps, my father’s skills were refined when he started working in a professional kitchen.

He worked in a hotel in Saipan in the early 90’s. He went home after a year and continued working in kitchens of various hotels and restaurants. If I remember it right, he started as a dishwasher before he had the opportunity to use knives and ladles and pans. 11 years ago, he found a job in a cruise ship abroad. It was like he started all over again because for a few years he washed, sterilized and wiped dry kitchen utensils and china wares. Yet due to hard work and perseverance he is now an assistant cook. The sad part is, his lack of formal learning hinders him from further moving forward.

During the times when he was at home with us for a vacation, he really cooked a lot (No wonder I gained weight this much. Haha!). I stayed close to him, watched his every move, offered help with the simple tasks like beating eggs, peeling potatoes, slicing onions, etc. I tasted his dishes and tried to remember the techniques of cooking them. Our little kitchen has been the bonding place for both of us; it is where we met and talked and shared stories.

While he is away, I take charge of our kitchen. Although my mother does cook once in a while (Her kaldereta is oh-so-good!), I burn pans and consume ingredients most of the time. Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I fail. My mom and my siblings are my critics. I have been trying new things, experimenting with what’s available at home and following the recipes I see on TV and read on magazines. Sometimes I even put twists into them. But to expand my know-how I know I needed a broader audience. I have been cooking for my friends and put into consideration their comments and suggestions.  Back in college I would invite some of them to come at home. I cooked simple meals and they liked them. At least that’s what they told me.

For some time I forgot about my love for cooking. Crazy, isn’t? Perhaps I got too pre-occupied with the things going on around me; I might have focused too much on what I need to do rather than what I really want to do. But, quite frankly, thanks to Hell’s Kitchen and Master Chef, I was revived. I was reminded of the passion. The flame was ignited.

I continue cooking and experimenting once in a while. I try to be resourceful most of the time, using the available stuff at home. Even if I lack sleep I wake up early in the morning to prepare baon for mama and my siblings. On weekends, I still cook lunch and dinner. But even if my father is working abroad, I am not alone in the kitchen. Freedom, our youngest, always volunteers to do things for me. She asks for instructions, calls me when she’s unsure of something and takes pride of her accomplishments. She is my “assistant”. Oh yes, I see the young, inquisitive and persistent Maverick in her. The best part is, she said she wants to take up culinary in college. I couldn’t be happier.

I owe it to my family, to my father most especially. And although my mother does not cook as often as my papa, she is my number one fan and would always encourage me to go on and do what I really want. The same thing’s gonna happen to my siblings, to Freedom in particular. She’s gonna cook her heart out, do well in her chosen career, and I will be there for her all the way. That’s just how things go in our family.

Blazing Passion

People close to me know that cooking is one of the things I really like doing. It's one thing I can do all day. I actually mentioned in this blog that it is my dream to become a chef and of course, own my very own restaurant.


I didn't take up any formal studies. Sometimes I cook from what I read and saw on television. But I started learning from my father. For most times, likewise, I experiment with food; basically putting together the available ingredients we have at home. And with that I would like to share some of my creations. 


In the days to come I will write about my dishes. Some of them I might have done a hundred times already, some were results of first time cooking. I hope this will open more knowledge for me and at the same time encourage those who also have great ardor for food and, yes, cooking.


Stay tuned.


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Few But True

If I were to delete my Facebook friends and keep the close ones, and by close I mean those who I spend quality time with and I know I can count on through thick and thin, I’ll be left with less than ten contacts.

No offense to my FB buddies. But we all know that not everyone in our FB list is the closest pal we’ve got. Some are friends of friends, while others are mere acquaintances. What saddens me is to see most of my contacts have the chance to spend time with their real barkada. I envy them.

I wasn’t the popular guy in high school. Neither was I the smartest nor the athletic, heartthrob type. I was just an average student. And with being ordinary I had a few good, close chums who, admittedly, helped me get through HS. After graduation, I started to lose communication with them one by one. But thanks to modern technology and social networking I am rekindling some old friendships.

Things kind of turned differently in college. I was active and visible; I joined various guilds, won contests in and out of school, appeared in a few productions, and did absolutely well in my studies. I worked with several people, developed rapport and gained confidence with some.

It was in second year college where I worked in a small group of people for an advertising project. We were tasked to launch our own agency and part of the job was, of course, to think of a company name. We had several ideas then but we settled for MiDAS. We thought we can turn everything we touch into success, that we can achieve anything, and that nothing is impossible. We did pretty well during the launch. But what I didn’t see coming was the effect of the project to us. Because we worked well together, we decided to stick with one another for most of our other school assignments. We lost a few members along the way but welcomed new ones that made the team stronger and better. The working relationship, later on, developed into a deep, meaningful friendship.

We supported one another in every undertaking – school projects, student elections, competitions, financials, family problems, dealing with partners and ex’s, dealing with professors. We lied, encouraged, inspired, fought for one another. We’ve seen one another eat, sleep, brush teeth, stumble, get broke, cry, disappoint, fail, get humiliated, fall in love, fall out of love, fall in love again, laugh, fight  back, succeed. Name it. Once I thought that we were the dream team. We accomplished things because we know our strengths and weaknesses. I can’t claim that we were the best but I know we were strong. Yet, just like in any aspect of life, change is inevitable.

We still kept in touch after graduation. We hanged out for several occasions, updated one another of our job applications, shared news about our alma matter and stuff like that. I tried to arrange a get-together during our anniversary but everybody started to get busy. Very busy. At some point we lost communications. I reached out, reminded them how much I miss them and tried to set a reunion once in a while. I’d say I tried my best but I grew tired. And to see some of them go out and enjoy their time together without inviting the rest was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Somehow I felt it was just me who wanted to keep the group together.

MiDAS was my refuge. It was like a new found family. I know I could count on them for whatever. I did what I could to keep it alive and bonded but some things are out of my control. No matter how hard I try to reach out to them, if they are not willing to exert effort, it’s just useless. Oh, yes! For the past years since graduation there is one day in a year where MiDAS would be complete – post Christmas celebration. For me, it has just become obligatory rather than a whole-hearted gathering. Why only once a year?

But despite a depressing reality, life goes on. I can no longer live in something that doesn’t exist anymore. I have to blame myself though for being sentimental. But I have learned to know where to stand in somebody’s life. MiDAS was a college group. And college ended three years ago.

Less than ten FB contacts aren’t bad after all. No, it’s not bad at all. As long as I know my friendship is being valued, as long as I know I can count on that person, as long as they are true, I couldn’t be more thankful. 

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The Nike Experience

Yesterday was one heck of a run.

First, let me acknowledge Boom of Magic 89.9 for giving me a chance to win a slot at Nike We Run Manila 10K. It was my first time to call the radio for a contest and the experience was really awesome. Thanks a ton, Boom! :D

I got my race kit last Wednesday and everything in there was great – the bag, the singlet (which is by far the best I’ve got) and a Nike water bottle. There was also a VIP tag which gave us access to the lounge and to the front of the starting line. How cool is that?!

So going back to yesterday’s run, I left at 13:30 and arrived at BGC at about 16:00. The traffic was such an agony. But that was expected as 8,000 runners participated in the event. Despite the excruciating waiting on the road (thanks to Gordon Ramsey for the amusement), I was still optimistic for the rest of the afternoon. I was excited actually. The last time I felt that kind of excitement was when I ran in the Figaro event, which was my first.

Pau and I proceeded to the Nike village. It was kind of crowded already but what caught my attention was the lack booths. Very few event partners, e? There were a few tents inside the village: a Nike store, lounges which were for the exclusive use of VIPs and Nike+ users, concessionaires and a refreshment zone. That’s all. Anyway, we waited there until all runners were asked to proceed to the starting line. We were at the front, of course (thanks to our VIP tag). Five minutes before the run we were led to a warm up exercise. But believe me, you could barely move since the space was very limited. All runners were standing elbow to elbow. I even stepped on someone's foot twice and elbowed a small guy's face. Oops! Sorry. :D

And then the count down began. We started at exactly 17:00. My plan was to run slowly and gradually build up my pace like what I always do. But you could just feel the competitiveness and the excitement in the air that I was forced to run at full speed. After a couple of minutes, I was huffing and puffing. I slowed down a bit and had a cup of water on the first station.

I continued running at an average pace. I thought I should be able to finish before it gets dark. But after five kilometers, I felt pain in my toes. I was getting blisters! Damn! I tried to ignore it but every time I increase my pace it stings so badly I had to walk every few meters. I had no choice but to finish in a walk-run pace.

I failed to achieve my little goal. Stars have come out when I crossed the finish line. worse, I finished at 1:16:11 (that’s unofficial, though). Yan kasi, walang tamang practice, I thought to myself. But there’s no room for regrets. After all, I had a great time. Seeing thousands of runners in red flood the roads was really, really amazing! I’m glad to have been part of it.

I met Pau in front of the finisher’s claiming area afterwards (yes, he always finishes before me!). We were expecting to get the Nike Lunarglide USB but due to delay in production, Nike was not able to distribute it yet. So we got a couple of drinks instead and a poster. We then went to the VIP lounge to have some refreshments. Yes, there was food! The best part of the night! LOL! We were served with lumpia, veggie spring rolls and canapés and iced tea. Refreshing! We stayed there for about half an hour and finally decided to leave. Parokya ni Edgar, Sandwich and Chicosci were set to perform but we left anyway as there were no seats to stay at. Masakit na kaya sa legs! At ramdam na ramdam ko na ang mga paltos sa paa ko!

The event is definitely one of my favorites. For one, I registered for free! I am looking forward to participating again in next year’s Nike We Run Manila. I hope to run with more friends and beat my time. By then, I'll make sure to have better preparation.

Thanks to the free F&B, my night was complete. Hihi!

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The Master of Fate

I had a rational conversation with a colleague this evening.  The facts presented to me were logical and pragmatic. The subject of our discussion – earning a master’s degree.

Right after graduation from college I planned to enroll in a graduate school. I wanted to earn another degree thinking that this will help me become better and more successful in my chosen profession, not to mention earning big salary and gaining respect and credibility in the field.  But admittedly, my views were, by some means, changed.

Attending and listening to a classroom lecture adds knowledge. Picking up the brain of professors, and perhaps fellow practitioners, widens perspective on certain issues and interests. But I’ve come to realize that these do not guarantee success. What we do outside the classroom determines the path of our career.

Accomplishments speak of skills. Attitude determines professionalism.  Passion brings out dedication. I’ve personally come in contact with people who have and have not earned a master’s degree program.

One of my college professors earned her degree by the time I graduated. What I know is that it took her about ten years to finish it. During the time when she was studying she was a dedicated teacher (And she still is). She tried her best to attend to every student’s need - she worked overtime, listened to student complaints, advised several organizations, worked out issues, stayed overnight in school to support activities, bridged gaps, defended students rights and so much more. She didn’t earn extra compensation nor received a promotion (until lately). She gained nothing but respect from every single student of the college. She became not only a teacher but also a friend, a coach, a mentor, and a mother. Everyone believes in her.

On the other hand, there were those who appear to know so much. They are either those who have received a second diploma or are working on one. But what they teach can be read and easily understood in manuscripts. Their familiarity of the course is shallow. Some present themselves with so much confidence yet lack integrity.

At work, I am dealing with someone who cannot even right a decent paragraph. Yet this person is about to finish a master’s degree in communication. But one person in the department carries with him fine writing ability developed by years of practice. He is our second in command.

I'd like to think that success is not found in the classroom. Likewise, books can only tell us the what’s and how’s and why’s. Sure we can earn a graduate school program. But the world around us, the people we interact with and even the mistakes we commit are, for me, the better teachers to gain knowledge from. Have a full grasp of these learnings and with passion and positive outlook, surely then, you can go places.

Mouth off

(Late posting)

I've always known that the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.  Yet I was reminded of it today after learning that somebody cursed in public.

This person was reprimanded by a superior and, perhaps out of rage, uttered the ever popular Filipino vulgar word putangina in front of several staffers. I felt pity more than shame for what he did. Not only did he create a negative impression for the team, he also revealed his level of professionalism and temperament. Yet, admittedly, he prompted me to be more careful with my actions and cautious with my words.

What we say is not only about what we feel towards something or someone.  I’ve come to understand that what comes out of our mouth is more of a reflection of our personality. It is an extension of our character, of what we are capable of doing, of our intelligence and ability to adapt in different circumstances. Truly, words are powerful. And once it’s said, it cannot be taken back. Words can build friendship but it can also create enemies.  Words boost morale yet can discourage a spirit.

Today’s incident was a learning experience for me. It is important to consider our words well. Sure, we can joke around and yell and say sentiments out loud.  But before we do that, we might want to consider the people around us and think of the possible consequences.

Mav's Toque

This morning I finished four episodes of Hell's Kitchen Season 1 (yeah, I just got out of the cave) and two more tonight. It was exciting and thrilling to watch. I was revived of my old dream.


Once our GM asked me what would I be had I not pursued my current career. I said I might be doing documentaries; capturing interesting yet socially relevant stories.  Either that or becoming a chef. (A combination of the two would be awesome!) Yes, I love to cook. It's my most favorite house chore. I don't mind spending hours in our hot, incomplete and tiny kitchen; preparing food is something  I am most willing to do all day.


My knowledge in cooking is very limited. I get to pick a few tips from watching TV shows and by searching the internet but I want to learn more. I want to experience working in a restaurant kitchen: chopping meat on thick chop boards, baking new dishes I don't know, presenting food flawlessly on clean chinaware, wearing that white buttoned uniform while being formally taught by a well-experienced chef. But, frankly, I cannot afford to go to a culinary school.  I once planned of joining a reality show though but, due to very limited time, I let it pass.  Sayang.  Maybe next time. 


Now I am confused. I have already started a solid career but I realized my desire to cook dishes and make people happy through my cooking is still burning inside me. I hope that it will happen someday.  Should opportunity present itself again I am not gonna let it pass. I will grab it, learn from it and improve myself through it.


I'm gonna have my own restaurant someday.

Credit

I was one of the many who watched Captain America on its first day of showing yesterday.  And after the two-hour solid movie, I decided to stay for the stinger. I knew there's gonna be a short clip at the end.  As I waited and watched the credits, something hit me.


I have observed that many moviegoers right away stand from their seats and leave the theater after the last scene. Which means that majority ignore the names that roll up the screen. I am guilty of this, too. Well, not until I realized that all those unfamiliar people deserve some respect.


I don't know them (except for the lead) but I thought, behind this movie are hundreds of other persons who worked their butts off to make the film a success.  They might have missed an important celebration, slept less than eight hours, wounded themselves during the filming, skipped a meal - all for their passion of making movies. Yet, many do not realize that. 


It also reminded me that once I have done a few short films as requirements back in college. Sure, they are not comparable to those blockbusters that appear on silver screen.  But I know the experience of revising a script hundred times, carrying equipment and wardrobe from one place to another, shooting a scene repetitively under the heat of the sun, spending sleepless nights editing videos. And as part of the production team, all I wanted was for people to appreciate the film and acknowledge my efforts.


So from now on, I'll make sure to finish the closing credits down to the last person. Those names are reminders that the film we just enjoyed was a collaboration of ideas, time and energy from many individuals whose goal was to give us the best entertainment. They deserve some credit.

The Perfect Fan

It's not everyday that I tell her how much she means to me. I could simply say that or send a text away, no sweat. But now that I'm all grown up, sometimes I feel awkward to let her know how I feel.  Not today though. Because today, on the occasion of her special day, I am announcing to the whole wide world that my mama is the reason where I am right now. I love her so dearly. And I honestly dunno how to live without her.


Yes, yes, we had our tough moments. We have issues about each other.  But no matter what, she's always there giving her best for me, for us with my siblings. She's sacrificed a lot. But never did she turn her back on us despite our stubbornness and neglectfulness at times. (okay, most of the time).   So here's the lyrics of the song I dedicate to her. I fell in love with it the first time I heard it cause it best describes my mama.


It takes a lot to know what is love
It's not the big thing but the little things
That can mean enough
A lot of players to get me through
And there is never a day that passes by
I don't think of you
You were always there for me
Pushing me and guiding me
Always to succeed


You showed me
When i was young just how to grow
You showed me everything that i should know
You showed me just how to walk without your hands
'Cause mom you always were the perfect fan


God has been so good
Blessing me with the family
Who did all they could
And I've had many years of Grace
And it flatters me when i see a smile on your face
I wanna thank you for what you've done
In hopes I can give back to you
And be the perfect son


You showed me
When i was young just how to grow
You showed me everything that i should know
You showed me just how to walk without your hands
'Cause mom you always were the perfect fan


You showed me how to love
You showed me how to care
You showed me that you would always be there
I wanna thank you for the time
And i'm proud to say you're mine


You showed me
When i was young just how to grow
You showed me everything that i should know
You showed me just how to walk without your hands
'Cause mom you always were the perfect fan


'Cause Mom you always were, Mom you always were
Mom you always were...You know you always were
'Cause Mom you always were the perfect fan


I Love You Mom!

I guess I was three when this was taken.

Happy birthday, Ma. I love you!


For those who are not familiar with the song, click here.

24

I've been working on this article for my new blog site.  It’s supposed to come out on my birthday. The thing is, I couldn’t finish it. Probably because I’m trying too much, thinking I’d gain people’s attention by writing impressively.  But long ago I’ve been taught that writing is a way to communicate; an opportunity to express one’s self and not to impress others.

So here I am now being true to myself.  Scribbling the letters with all faithfulness to what I really feel and to what I truly want to say.  It’s just simple. In my twenty-four years of existence, I can say that I have matured.  And I’m continuously working to be a better person.

My life experiences may not be as complicated or as challenging as those of other people.  But just like anybody else, I had my ups and downs, sweet and bitter moments, laughter and tears, peace and anxiety.  I’ve been insecure of other people’s talents.  Uncertainties have scared the hell out of me. And, lately, I’ve been so awfully anxious about a lot of stuff going on around me. Likewise, I've fallen a hundred times and hurt many people. I lied. I cheated. I refused to help. I cursed. I judged. I took advantage. I cried. But life goes on.  

I’ve had some regrets, yes.  Yet I know I cannot live a life full of guilt.  Moving on is the only way. Part of it is to accept who I am, what I can and cannot do, embrace my gifts and be thankful for all the blessings I receive.  Actually, if I take a careful account of my fortune, I could brag on my most valuable treasures: I have a stable job that lets me do things I like, a healthy and loving family, few but true friends who never fall short in fulfilling their duties as my ate’s and kuya’s (that is because they are more mature than me), an affectionate dog who makes me smile every single day, a vigorous and fit body that can finish a 10-kilometer run *ehem*, and so on.

I guess all I’m trying to say is, I’ve somehow come to know myself. In some ways I’ve accepted my weaknesses and used well my strengths to be the best person that I can be. When something is not meant for me, I’m learning to let go.  Yet if I badly want to earn or win something, I realize I have to work hard for it.

There are thousands of things I still need to learn and discover.  But I am more confident now. I am ready to confront the challenges that lie ahead. With patience, tolerance and understanding, I know I can.